DEVELOPMENT OF CATTLE INTEGRATION IN VARIOUS PATTERNS OF MAINTENANCE WITH SMALLHOLDER OIL PALM PLANTATIONS

Abstract

The integration of cattle with smallholder oil palm plantations can increase the population and productivity of cattle, and improve the efficiency of smallholder oil palm plantations. The positive synergy that can be achieved from this integration can ensure the feed supply for cattle, save on the use of inorganic fertilizers for oil palm plantations, and forage for grass for cattle feed. The pattern of raising cattle on smallholder oil palm plantations varies (extension, semi-intensive, and intensive) according to the behavior/habits and abilities of farmers, thus requiring different strategies. The composition and structure of cattle systems integrated with oil palm plantations varies in various patterns of rearing. In the pattern of raising cattle on smallholder oil palm plantations, each has advantages and disadvantages. The novelty of this research is that the proposed model involves the integration of cattle with oil palm plantations having semi-intensive and intensive maintenance patterns that comply with the existing conditions and the farmers’ behavior.